Amaravati, January 04: An Air India Airbus A320 completed the first commercial validation flight, landing smoothly at the new Bhogapuram International Airport in Vizianagaram district, about 50 km from Visakhapatnam.
Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu, along with Vizianagaram MP Kalisetti Appala Naidu and aviation officials, arrived on the flight from Delhi around 11 a.m. The aircraft received a ceremonial water cannon salute, signalling that the runway, navigation systems, and safety protocols are ready.
Developed by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited on a 2,200-acre greenfield site, the airport has reached 96-97% completion. Its 3.8 km runway can handle wide-body aircraft, with initial capacity for six million passengers annually, expandable later.
A cargo terminal will support exports of pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and marine products. Officials aim for full commercial operations by June 30, 2026, potentially advanced slightly. Improved road access from Visakhapatnam and NH-16 is underway to ease travel.
